Automated vertical plant cultivation system

ABSTRACT

An automated plant cultivation system is provided having multi-tiered vertically arranged horizontal magazine structures each employing seed or plant capsules with a fluid circulation and illumination and communication network controlled by an on-board processor. Particularly, the system includes a magazine structure having seed/plant capsules within seed/plant reservoirs alternately arranged between at least one of a light source substantially concealed from direct viewing. A fluid channel extends across a long axis of the magazine structure, wherein the magazine structure is adapted for use of seed/plant capsules with nutrient composite plant growth cultivation, hydroponic plant growth cultivation, aeroponic plant growth cultivation methods or combinations thereof.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[S]

This application is a continuation of the earlier U.S. Utility PatentApplication entitled “AUTOMATED VERTICAL PLANT CULTIVATION SYSTEM,” Ser.No. 15/589,845, filed May 8, 2017, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated entirely herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field

This invention relates generally to a plant cultivation system and moreparticularly an automated plant cultivation system having multi-tieredvertically arranged horizontal structures each employing seed or plantcapsules with a fluid circulation and illumination and communicationnetwork controlled by an on-board processor.

State of the Art

In urban environments, smart space utilization is key to reducing homeand office costs. The 21st century electronic technologies have had aprofound impact on design concepts applied to furniture/applianceplacement in interiors. Present day interior electronic devices areslimline, compact, multifunctional and network designed to optimizefloor and wall space. Device connectivity via the internet results inless dependency on printed material, further clearing floor and wallspace previously taken up by bookcases.

As technological advances have changed design practices, indoorappliances and furniture, they have also isolated us from nature. Whileoutdoor garden and parks are common in urban environments, a featureappreciated by all, indoor space for gardens in urban settings has thusfar been the privilege of only the wealthy. The advent of the internetof things (“IoT”) governed by resident intelligence now makes indoorhorticulture affordable to all. Historic technological obstacles whichstood in the way of home and office plant cultivation, including soil,moisture, lighting, insects, fungi, molds, algae, and odor control, havebeen overcome. Now, technology has made indoor plant cultivation notonly possible, but also affordable for most people.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an automated plant cultivation systemhaving multi-tiered vertically arranged horizontal structures eachemploying seed or plant capsules with a fluid circulation andillumination and communication network controlled by an on-boardprocessor.

An embodiment includes an automated vertical plant cultivation systemcomprising: a magazine structure for plant cultivation comprising: atleast one fluid channel, a light source with a reflector aperturesubstantially concealing the light source from direct view; and at leasttwo seed/plant reservoirs, each seed/plant reservoir retaining aseed/plant capsule, wherein the fluid channel extends across the lightsource aperture and each seed/plant reservoir allowing fluid into saidreservoirs.

Another embodiment includes an automated vertical plant cultivationsystem comprising a magazine structure having: seed/plant capsuleswithin seed/plant reservoirs alternately arranged between at least oneof a light source substantially concealed from direct viewing; a fluidchannel extend across a long axis of the magazine structure, wherein themagazine structure is adapted for use of seed/plant capsules withnutrient composite plant growth cultivation, hydroponic plant growthcultivation, aeroponic plant growth cultivation methods or combinationsthereof.

Further, another embodiment includes an automated vertical plantcultivation system comprising: a magazine structure comprising: at leastone seed/plant capsule fluid reservoir, a fluid channel; and a lightsource, wherein the seed/plant reservoir has an inner wall forcontaining fluid and an outer wall that is a light reflector.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present inventionwill be apparent from the following more detailed description of theparticular embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived byreferring to the detailed description and claims when considered inconnection with the Figures, wherein like reference numbers refer tosimilar items throughout the Figures, and:

FIG. 1A is a schematic view of an automated vertical plant cultivationsystem, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of an automated vertical plant cultivationsystem, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 1C is a front view of an automated vertical plant cultivationsystem, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 1D is a side view of an automated vertical plant cultivationsystem, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 2A is a side view of a magazine structure of an automated verticalplant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 2B is a top view of a magazine structure of an automated verticalplant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 2C is a bottom view of a magazine structure of an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a portion of a magazine structure of anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 3B is a perspective, partially exploded view of a portion of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4A is a top view of a fluid channel cover of a magazine structureof an automated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments,

FIG. 4B is a first side view of a fluid channel cover of a magazinestructure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4C is a second side view of a fluid channel cover of a magazinestructure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4D is a bottom view of a fluid channel cover of a magazinestructure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4E is a top view of a first end fluid channel cover of a magazinestructure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4F is a first side view of a first end fluid channel cover of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4G is a second side view of a first end fluid channel cover of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4H is a bottom view of a first end fluid channel cover of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4I is a top view of a second end fluid channel cover of a magazinestructure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4J is a first side view of a second end fluid channel cover of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4K is a second side view of a second end fluid channel cover of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 4L is a bottom view of a second end fluid channel cover of amagazine structure of an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments,

FIG. 5A is a section view of a magazine structure of an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5B is a section view of a magazine structure of an automatedvertical plant cultivation system with plant/seed capsule, in accordancewith embodiments;

FIG. 5C is a top view of a magazine structure of an automated verticalplant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5D is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5C takenalong line 5D-5D, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5E is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5C takenalong line 5E-5E, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5F is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5C takenalong line 5F-5F, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5G is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5C takenalong line 5G-5G, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5I is a top view of another magazine structure of an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5J is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5I takenalong line 5J-5J, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5K is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5I takenalong line 5K-5K, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5L is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5I takenalong line 5L-5L, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 5M is a section view of the magazine structure of FIG. 5I takenalong line 5M-5M, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 6A is a side view of a seed/plant capsule for use in an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 6B is a section side view of a seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 6C is a section side view of a portion of a seed/plant capsule foruse in an automated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordancewith embodiments;

FIG. 6D is a side view of a seed/plant capsule for use in an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 6E is a top view of a seed/plant capsule for use in an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 6F is a side view of a hydroponics seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 6G is a section side view of a hydroponics seed/plant capsule foruse in an automated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordancewith embodiments;

FIG. 6H is a section side view of a portion of a hydroponics seed/plantcapsule for use in an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 6I is a side view of a hydroponics seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments:

FIG. 6J is a top view of a hydroponics seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 6K is a side view of an aeroponics seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 6L is a section side view of an aeroponics seed/plant capsule foruse in an automated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordancewith embodiments;

FIG. 6M is a section side view of a portion of an aeroponics seed/plantcapsule for use in an automated vertical plant cultivation system, inaccordance with embodiments;

FIG. 6N is a side view of an aeroponics seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 6O is a top view of an aeroponics seed/plant capsule for use in anautomated vertical plant cultivation system, in accordance withembodiments;

FIG. 7A is a section view of a lighting device of an automated verticalplant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 7B is a side view of a lighting device of an automated verticalplant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments;

FIG. 7C is a section view of another lighting device of an automatedvertical plant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments; and

FIG. 7D is a side view of a lighting device of an automated verticalplant cultivation system, in accordance with embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

As discussed above, embodiments of the present invention relate to anautomated plant cultivation system having multi-tiered verticallyarranged horizontal structures each employing seed or plant capsuleswith a fluid circulation and illumination and communication networkcontrolled by an on-board processor.

Automated Vertical Plant Cultivation System

An Automated Vertical Plant Cultivation System (200) automates indoorplant cultivation by simplifying a process otherwise requiring constantattention. The innovative design concept resolves the challenge ofintroducing plant material into an indoor space in an attractive manneroccupying minimum space.

FIG. 1A shows the assembly's design concept and structural frame. Theconcept's key element is its magazine. Prior to teaching about themagazine, an overview of the system's fluid circulatory, power andcontrols systems will help to understand the magazine's multilayeredinnovation.

Fluid Circulation System

FIG. 1A-1D depicts the system's fluid circulation system for seed/plantcapsule (4) containing nutrient composite (16) supported by electronicdevices. An inlet shut-off valve (31) passes fluid (5) to aholding/overflow tank (7) through an optional filter cup (32). Anelectric pump (6) lifts the fluid (5) to a gravity tank (9) elevatedabove magazines (3). At the gravity tank (9), the fluid (5) may beoxygenated. Also, if needed, the fluid (5) temperature may be regulated.A fluid sensor (45) in the gravity tank (9) monitors the tank's fluidlevel. At least one pipe (12) connects the gravity tank (45) to theplant magazine (3). Also, at least one overflow pipe (39) connects thegravity tank (9) to an overflow outlet (33) in magazine/s, an optionalfilter cup (32) and the overflow/holding tank (7). When fluid levels atthe gravity tanks (5) exceed a set level, fluid flows through thegravity tank overflow bypass directly into an optional detachable filtercup (32) and from there to the holding/overflow tank (7). The filter cup(32) collects particles in the fluid (5) and is cleaned periodically.Fluid (5) flows to each magazine (3) by gravity. At each magazine inlet(25), a valve (44) controls the volume of fluid (5) permitted to enterthe magazine (3). As is with the gravity tank (9), if fluid levelsexceed a set level inside the magazine (3) an overflow bypass outletreleases excess fluid through the overflow pipe (39) back to theoptional filter cup (32) or directly to the holding/overflow tank (7).The magazine valve (44) operation can be controlled by a moisture/fluidsensor (45) as shown in FIGS. 1A & 3B or by the assembly controls (41)responding to a signal from the moisture/fluid sensor (45). In bothmethods fluid level inside the magazine (3) is monitored. When fluidlevels fall below a set level, the sensor (45) directly or indirectlyvia the assembly controls (41) opens the valve to allow fluid to reach apre-set level. When fluid level exceeds set point level but does notreach the overflow outlet (10), it is left to be consumed by plant (29)and evaporation. When fluid (5) levels in the gravity tank (9) dropbelow a pre-set level, the tank's fluid sensor (35) directly orindirectly via the assembly controller opens the inlet shut-off valve(31) to allow fluid (5) to enter the holding/overflow tank (7) whileactivating the pump (6) forcing water into the gravity tank (9). In adifferent embodiment, the fluid circulation system doesn't employ agravity tank (9) delivering fluid directly to magazine (3). Also, in adifferent embodiment where direct connectivity to exterior fluid outletis not available, fluid can be poured directly or indirectly to theholding tank through an inlet.

The system's versatile fluid circulation system supported by electronicdevices is capable of cultivating plants by conventional seed embeddedin nutrient rich composite, hydroponic or aeroponic methods. FIGS. 1A-1Ddepicts the system's assembly fluid circulation system for bothseed/plant capsule employing nutrient composite (FIGS. 6A-6E); ahydroponic capsule having the nutrient mixed in the fluid (FIGS. 6F-6J),and a aeroponic capsule having the nutrient mixed in the fluid (FIGS.6K-6O). FIGS. 6F-6J depict the hydroponic seed/plant capsule inelevations and section form. The hydroponic fluid solution is pouredthrough an inlet opening (110) above the holding/overflow tank (7) orthrough an inlet opening at the filter cup inlet (112).

The system is typically connected directly to the fluid access point.Where such point is not available, fluid is poured into the systemassembly overflow/holding tank.

Power and Controls System

The system's fluid (5) circulation, lighting (46), sound (49), andcommunication (43) devices are electrically powered and governed in partor in whole by the assembly's control (41). Most or all devices' voltageis stepped down (40).

The assembly control responsibilities include but are not limited to:

-   -   A. Managing a synchronized operation of devices.    -   B. Monitoring devices and creating data sets if required.    -   C. Alerting user when an assembly device experiences an anomaly.    -   D. Facilitating backup power connectivity when experiencing a        power shortage.    -   E. Providing diagnostic and troubleshooting reports.    -   F. Monitoring ambient conditions including assembly fluid        temperature.

Tasked with maintaining favorable environmental conditions for plantgrowth, the assembly's controls (43) consist of a processor with memorythat governs in part or in whole a device network consisting ofcommunication module (43), communicating with local or local and remotedevices, power distribution bus (59), a thermal probe/heater (116)lighting devices (46), a pump (6), an oxygenator (47), valves (11), aphoto sensor (58), a moisture/fluid level sensor (45), an optionalback-up power module (48) and/or an audio module (49) and a local orremote I/O communication module (43). Input/output to and from thesystem's assembly control is via a local interface directly mounted tothe control panel, on an easy to reach panel at the assembly walls (42)or by remote device. Alternatively, a wireless remote device may also beused or be substituted for the control interface.

The fluid circulation system may employ two types of sensors—a basictype sensing moisture upon contact or a sensor programmed with a fluidlevel range variability. The system includes valves that may bebi-directional, allowing fluid to enter at one inlet and draining fluidin a neighboring outlet. The fluid/moisture sensor (45) of the systemassembly must be perfectly plumb for proper operation and not subjectedto vibrations and/or fluid agitation.

Upon activation, the system assembly controls (41) query the operationalstatus of its network devices. Once all devices are confirmed to beonline and ready to be used, the fluid's circulation process begins withthe fluid sensor/s (45). The sensor/s send input to the controls aboutfluid levels in some or all the fluid containing vessels. The controls(41) then activate the fluid circulation system.

As the circulation system comes online, the overflow/holding tank fluidlevel reaches a point triggering the pump (6) to lift the fluid (5) tothe gravity tank (9). A sensor in the gravity tank is in communicationwith the pump (9) allowing fluid volume to rise to a pre-set level. Asthe fluid at the gravity tank reaches a pre-set point, the magazines'valves (44) open to let fluid in. Fluid flow into the magazine stops byinput from the moisture/fluid sensor (45) once the fluid level reaches apre-set point. The flow of fluid to the magazine/s may be preceded by anoxygenator (47) at the gravity tank (9) enriching the oxygen content inthe fluid (5) and/or a thermal probe/heater (116) regulating the fluid(5) temperature.

FIG. 3A shows partial elevations of the magazine's power connectivityand fluid external circulation system. FIG. 3B shows the fluid inlet(8), inside the magazine's inlet reservoir (37), an inlet valve (44)which permits fluid to enter the magazine and the moisture/fluid sensor(45) abutting the valve (44). Both operate in unison to control fluidlevel in the magazine. Any access fluid (5) drains down to the filtercup (32) or directly into the overflow tank (7) through the magazine'soverflow outlet (33). In aeroponic embodiments bi-directional valves maybe used to let fluid in the magazine and then drain it out to theoverflow/holding tank in a cyclical manner.

FIG. 3A shows the opposite end of the magazine's fluid inlet. This endreceives power or power/data from the power/data bus conveying it todevices inside/on the magazine and downstream devices. It has a smallcompartment to install a power supply/modulator if needed and concealwiring slack. Inside/on the magazine the common devices may includevalve/s, sensor/s, light module/s, temperature probe and photo sensor.The power or power/data is conveyed in the magazine through fluidchannel covers. FIGS. 4A-4L shows the covers with their respective poweror power/data receptacles (60, as shown). FIGS. 4E-4H show a plug & playreceptacle in the cover top and bottom faces. The power or power anddata enter from below and are conveyed to the next magazine or device/sfrom above. Inside the cover, the power or power/data are routed toconnect with the long power cover shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, also showing thelighting device receptacles (53). The cover at the opposite end to thepower entry conveys power to the moisture/fluid sensor, the valve/s andto an optional temperature probe. FIGS. 4I-4L show the cover with itspower/data pronged connectors to moisture/fluid sensor (45) and valve/s(44) in the fluid inlet reservoir.

The lighting devices (46) operate by the controller's (41) programmedschedule or can operate manually. Power enters the reflector's aperture(56) from the fluid channel cover (38). The receptacles (53) for thelighting devices (46) are located on the fluid channel cover (38). FIGS.7A-7D shows the lighting device (46) consisting of a “U” shaped elementhaving lateral outwardly extensions on the upright legs' top end. Theextensions serve as hanging points for the lighting device (46) andpower or power/data connectivity point at one side. Below, a lightsource (65) strip, typically LED cultured onto a substrate mounted ontoa heatsink (27) having fins (63) to dissipate the heat generated by thelight source (65). In some embodiments, the non-powered hanger canconduct the heat into the fluid channel (22) when needed.

The light source (65) spectral distribution via the assembly controls(41) can be modulated. Such modulation can provide pleasant illuminationduring periods where the space is occupied, or switching to grow lightspectral distribution when the space is vacant of occupants or perschedule. The light output can also be modulated with programmed pre-setoutput modes. The lighting device (46) is detachable, shielded fromdirect contact by a reflector assembly and safe from electrical shockbeing powered by low voltage.

System Magazine

The magazine (3) is an embodiment providing structural support to plantmaterial, acting as a fluid containing vessel, and providingillumination to plants. FIGS. 5A-5B shows the magazine in section, wheresection FIG. 5A shows the structure only and FIG. 5B shows the sectionstructure with seed/plant capsules (4) and lighting devices (46). Themagazine is commonly made of non-porous material sufficiently rigid tosupport its weight, seed/plant capsules (4), fluid (5), and lightingdevices (46) over relatively long spans. Alternatively, the magazine maybe made of non-porous materials with lining to contain fluid. The mostcommon form of magazine (3) shown in FIGS. 2A-2C is rectangular. Arectangular magazine has at least one double wall (36) along its longaxis to form the fluid channel (22) between walls. The fluid channel atthe inner magazine wall (36) drain into multiple plant/seed capsulereservoirs (20). These reservoirs shown in FIGS. 5C and 5I arealternately located between lighting reflector apertures (55) shown inFIGS. 7A-7D. At one of magazine's short ends FIG. 3B a micro valve (44)controls fluid (5) flow into the magazine (3). As fluid (5) enters themagazine (3), it flows into an inlet reservoir (37) and from there tothe magazine fluid channel (22). The fluid (5) then flows to themagazine plant/seed capsule reservoir (20) maintaining an equal level atall reservoirs when magazines are horizontally plumb. A moisture/fluidsensor (45) directly or indirectly via the assembly controller (41)maintains a pre-set fluid level by controlling the micro valve (44)operation. The moisture/fluid sensor (45) can be integrated with themicro valve (44) as shown in FIG. 3B or remote at the opposite end ofthe magazine fluid inlet (25). The plant/seed capsules (4) inserted intothe capsule reservoir (20) are immersed in the fluid (5). The fluid (5)level rises just above the seed's (17) vertical elevation placement.Aeroponic magazine embodiment includes a piping network through thefluid channel/s leading to the plant/seed reservoir. There fluidatomizers spray their mist onto the plant root. The aeroponic valve mayserve as an inlet and drain valve in conjunction with the fluid pumpexcluding the use of the gravity tank.

The magazine's (3) fluid circulation system employs detachable fluidchannel covers (38) to protect the circulation system fromcontamination, harboring insects and evaporation. When a seed capsule isnot used, a cover (106) provides equal protection. A light apertureopening cover (117) is used where no light device is used or there is noneed for up-lighting.

FIGS. 5A-5M and FIG. 7A-7D show how the lighting devices are integratedinto the magazine's architecture. The magazine's lighting devices (46)are located between the plant/seed capsule reservoirs (20). Thesedevices (46) are substantially concealed from direct viewing byreflector apertures (55) which also acts as the exterior wall of theplant/seed capsule reservoir (21). The reflector's short ends areabutting the magazine's fluid channel (22) walls. Power flows to thelighting devices through conductors embedded in the fluid channel cover(38). The lighting device rests on the channel cover at both sides ofthe magazine and plug-in prongs at one side engage a correspondingreceptacle on the top surface of the fluid channel cover.

FIG. 7A-7D shows the reflector aperture partly open at is apex. Hungfrom both ends, the lighting device light source (65) is optimallylocated inside the reflector (55) to cast illumination upwardly anddownwardly. The opening at the reflector's (55) apex permits directlight to illuminate the bottom of the plant (29) canopy. The enclosedportion of the reflector (55) having reflective surface (57), captureslow angles light rays and re-directs them downwardly to top of plant(29) canopy of the magazine (3) below. The reflector (55) surface can bemade partially or fully of highly reflective material.

The reflector aperture (55) confines the distribution light beam patternto substantially fall on plant (29) material and not stray beyond. Thiscapability is important when light spectral distribution which isharmful to human exposure is used. The light source (65) spectralwavelength can be limited to “grow light” spectral distribution only, orcan also include other spectral distributions. In such settings, thelight emittance can be set on a scheduler governed by the systemcontroller.

The reflector aperture opening (56) enables air to flow from the bottomto the top of the magazine (3), cooling the lighting device andeliminating heat stratification. In addition, the lighting device's (46)un-powered hanging leg can cool the device by conducting heat into thefluid channel (22).

In another embodiment, bi-directional illumination is provided by havingtwo light sources aimed at substantially opposite directions. FIGS.7A-7D shows two light sources mounted on the lighting device inside thereflector, where one is aimed upwardly and the other downwardly. Thesame lighting device may employ at least one light source. The systemmay also employ a lighting device in the vicinity of the gravity tank.This device's use may include illuminating the space where the lightband spectrum emulates sunlight, and is used in dark environments whereoccupants may develop SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).

System Plant/Seed Capsule

The plant/seed capsule (4) is an enclosure made of non-porous materialwith openings on top and on the bottom. The openings are sealed (110) toair and moisture and are removed prior to the capsule's deployment. Thecapsule contains one or several seeds of same or different plant (29)species. The seed (17) is embedded in a nutrient composite (16) and issuspended in scaffolding material (108) to enable root structure toestablish a firm hold for the plant (29) once the seed (17) germinates.In hydroponic or aeroponic plant cultivation methods, the seed placementis different. FIGS. 5J, 6G and 6L show the seeds inside the plant/seedcapsule placed in a sack surrounded by scaffolding material absentnutrients. The production of the nutrient composite (16) employingnon-hydroponic or non-aeroponic methods is tightly controlled to providethe correct balance of nutrients for the plant (29) species and protectfrom any life form including any in a dormant state. The productionprocess reduces or removes moisture content in the composite and in someapplications also removes air. At the bottom of the plant/seed capsule(4) for a capsule employing nutrient composite, a root membrane (15)permits fluid (5) to percolate into the capsule and upon seed (17)germination, allows the root system to penetrate the membrane (15) whilecontaining the nutrient composite (16) inside the capsule. Theplant/seed capsule (4) cap has a through sprout port through which theplant material sprouts. Some plant/seed capsules may come with severalsprout openings. Upon inserting the capsule into the capsule'sreservoir, a seal (110) surrounding the capsule's top wall preventsfluid/moisture infiltration.

System Structural Elements

The system is a load bearing assembly containing mechanical, electricaland plant material. FIG. 1A shows the key structural members. Theassembly form is typically a square or rectangular. The structuralmembers supporting the assembly include at least two vertical and twohorizontal members at the assembly's periphery. The horizontal member atthe bottom of the frame typically supports the pump (6), theholding/overflow tank (7), the control panel (41) and otherelectrical/electronic equipment. The horizontal member on top supportsthe gravity tank (9). The plant magazines (3) span across the verticalmembers latching onto them by adjustable fasteners (105). The adjustablefasteners free the magazine to travel vertically and be secured at thedesired location. The magazines (3) are structurally rigid supplementingthe assembly's overall structural strength. The vertical members may beopaque, or made of a see-through frame. Typically, the fluid's verticalcirculatory pipe system travels along one end of the support member/swhile the electrical/data vertical circulatory system travels along theother end. A wired or wireless interface panel can be placed on thevertical members' wall. The assembly design rating is for full loadingand may include a rating capacity for suspended assemblies.

The embodiments and examples set forth herein were presented in order tobest explain the present invention and its practical application and tothereby enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use theinvention. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat the foregoing description and examples have been presented for thepurposes of illustration and example only. The description as set forthis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possiblein light of the teachings above without departing from the spirit andscope of the forthcoming claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A plant cultivation system comprising: anelongated structure including a first cavity that is upward facing andhaving sidewalk that accommodate therein a first capsule, the firstcapsule sized to hold growth media as well as a seed or a plant therein,a second cavity that is also upward facing and also having sidewallsthat accommodate therein a second capsule, the second capsule sized tohold growth media as well as another seed or another plant therein, athird cavity that is downfacing, disposed between the first cavity andthe second cavity, and shares a first common sidewall with the firstcavity and a second common sidewall with the second cavity, and a fluidchannel that conveys water and has side walls and a bottom that extendhorizontally along the elongated structure and are in fluidcommunication with the first capsule and the second capsule that arerespective disposed in the first cavity and the second cavity, but notin fluid communication with the third cavity, and a cover that fits overtop of the first fluid channel; and a light source disposed in the thirdcavity and configured to emit light therefrom, the light source isconcealed from sight from a side view, and at least a portion of thelight reflects off the first common sidewall and the second commonsidewall so as to illuminate an area below the third cavity.
 2. Theplant cultivation system of claim 1, further comprising: a moisturesensor; and a processor that controls fluid circulation in the fluidchannel based on an input from the moisture sensor, and also controls anoperation of the light source.
 3. The plant cultivation system of claim1, further comprising: a vertical support structure that supports theelongated structure at a predetermined height above a floor.
 4. Theplant cultivation system of claim 3, further comprising: anotherelongated structure supported by the vertical support structure at aposition that is below the elongated structure, the another elongatedstructure including a fourth cavity that is upward facing and hassidewalls that accommodate therein a third capsule, the fourth cavity ispositioned to receive light emitted from the light source of theelongated structure, including the portion of light that is reflectedoff the first common sidewall and the second common sidewall.
 5. Theplant cultivation system of claim 4, wherein the another elongatedstructure further comprising: a fifth cavity that is also upward facingand also has sidewalls that accommodate therein a fourth capsuletherein; and a sixth cavity that is downfacing, disposed between thefourth cavity and the fifth cavity, and shares a third common sidewallwith the fourth cavity and a fourth common sidewall with the fifthcavity.
 6. The plant cultivation system of claim 5, wherein the anotherelongated structure further comprising: another fluid channel thatconveys water and has side wails and another bottom that extendhorizontally along the another elongated structure and are in fluidcommunication with the third capsule and the fourth capsule that arerespective disposed in the fourth cavity and the fifth cavity.
 7. Theplant cultivation system of claim 1, wherein the a spectrum of lightemitted from the light source is modulated.
 8. The plant cultivationsystem of claim 1, wherein the third cavity has an opening formed at anapex thereof that vents heat produced by the light source.
 9. The plantcultivation system of claim 1, wherein the first common sidewallcomprises a light reflective surface, and the second common sidewallcomprises another light reflective surface.
 10. The plant cultivationsystem of claim 3, wherein under a condition respective ends of theelongated structure are supported by the vertical support structure, aremaining span of the elongated structure is self-supporting of acombined weight under a condition the first capsule is filled, thesecond capsule is filled, and the fluid channel is filled with fluid.11. The plant cultivation system of claim 1, wherein the cover includesan electrical conductor that conveys at least one of power and data. 12.The plant cultivation system of claim 1, further comprising: a valvethat is controlled by the processor to control an amount of fluid flowin the fluid channel.
 13. The plant cultivation system of claim 1,wherein the fluid channel is configured to allow fluid flow in a firstdirection along the elongated structure, and a electrical flow of powerand/or data flows in a second direction along the elongated structure,the second direction being opposite to the first direction.
 14. Theplant cultivation system of claim 1, further comprising: an adjustablefastener is coupled to the elongated structure.
 15. A plant cultivationsystem comprising: an elongated structure including a first cavity thatis upward facing and having sidewalls that accommodate therein a firstcapsule, the first capsule sized to hold growth media as well as a seedor a plant therein, a second cavity that is also upward facing and alsohaving sidewalls that accommodate therein a second capsule, the secondcapsule sized to hold growth media as well as another seed or anotherplant therein, a third cavity that is downfacing, disposed between thefirst cavity and the second cavity, and shares a first common sidewallwith the first cavity and a second common sidewall with the secondcavity, and a fluid channel that conveys water and has side walls and abottom that extend horizontally along the elongated structure and are influid communication with the first capsule and the second capsule thatare respective disposed in the first cavity and the second cavity, butnot in fluid communication with the third cavity, and a cover that fitsover top of the first fluid channel; a light source that is detachablyattached in the third cavity and configured to emit light therefrom, thelight source is concealed from sight from a side view, and at least aportion of the light illuminates an area below the third cavity; and aprocessor that controls fluid circulation in the fluid channel based onan input from the moisture sensor, and also controls an operation of thelight source, wherein under a condition respective ends of the elongatedstructure are supported, a remaining span of the elongated structure isself-supported by the side walls and bottom of the fluid channel under acombined weight under a condition the first capsule is filled, thesecond capsule is filled, and the fluid channel is filled with fluid.16. The plant cultivation system of claim 15, wherein: the elongatedstructure is substantially formed of a unitary material.
 17. The plantcultivation system of claim 15, further comprising: an adjustablefastener is coupled to the elongated structure.
 18. The plantcultivation system of claim 15, wherein the elongated structure ishorizontally disposed and coupled to at least one vertical supportstructure.
 19. The plant cultivation system of claim 15, wherein theelongated structure is made of rigid material and cantilevershorizontally.
 20. The plant cultivation system of claim 15, wherein theelongated structure is made of is made of non-porous material.